Founded in 1993, Recreation Therapists of Indiana, Inc. (RTI) is a professional organization representing approximately 200 recreational therapists throughout the state of Indiana. RTI is a chapter affiliate of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) which is the largest national association of recreational therapists. RTI is the third largest ATRA chapter affiliate.

What is Recreational Therapy?

Recreational Therapy services are goal directed interventions that utilize various treatment modalities to promote the independent physical, cognitive, emotional and social functioning of persons disabled as a result of injury or illness, by enhancing current skills and facilitating the establishment of new skills for daily living and community functioning. Targeted recreational therapy interventions assist individuals in coping with the stress of illness and disability and prepare them for managing their disability so they may achieve and maintain optimal levels of independence, productivity, and well being. Depending upon the specific needs of the individual client, quality recreation therapy services may include the provision of recreational opportunity and physical activity (e.g. wheelchair sports, exercise and swimming programs) which allow individuals with disabilities mechanisms to prevent declines in physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health status, and therefore reduce the need for medical services (ATRA).

For more information about Recreational Therapy, visit the ATRA website at:

An individual who is a graduate of a baccalaureate degree program with a specialization in therapeutic recreation, that includes completion of an internship; and has demonstrated competence to practice as a therapeutic recreation specialist. The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) provides national certification. Many employers insist on hiring individuals with the professional certification designation, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). A few states regulate this profession through licensure, certification or regulation of titles.

Learn more about certification standards and credentialing in the field of Recreational Therapy

The RHI Sports Program and the Indianapolis YMCA is bringing USA Boccia to Indianapolis on Saturday, May 19 from 11- 4. This clinic is designed to teach anyone with a disability how to play. However, it is also designed to teach clinicians how to teach Boccia to their patients. Clinicians will receive a certificate of education for attending. The goal of the clinic is to educate and promote Boccia Ball in Indianapolis.